KTT Mint vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray
An in-depth look at the KTT Mint and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are many options to choose from, each with their own unique characteristics and feel. Two popular options for those seeking a linear switch are the KTT Mint and the SP-Star Polaris Gray. The Mint is known for its satisfyingly smooth feel, providing a light and fleeting typing experience with a poppy thockiness. Categorized as low-pitched, neutral, mild, and polished, it offers a pleasant and consistent typing experience. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switches are preferred by those who enjoy a bouncy typing experience. These switches offer a clean and clacky sound profile, adding a touch of satisfaction to each keystroke. Categorized as low-pitched, neutral, mild, thocky, and polished, they bring a unique quality to the typing experience. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision in choosing the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The KTT Mint and the SP-Star Polaris Gray both share a similar housing material for their top housing, which is polycarbonate. This material offers several benefits, including a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal choice for users who prioritize sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for optimal utilization of RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switch. Therefore, users can expect similar sound and visual experiences from both switches due to their shared housing material.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Mint and the Polaris Gray differ in their materials. The Mint utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Polaris Gray opts for polycarbonate. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its softer composition absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Polaris Gray contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate in the bottom housing ensures a clear and resonant sound. Thus, users can expect different sound experiences when bottoming-out keys on these switches.
It is important to note that the qualities brought by the housing materials of the Mint and Polaris Gray will be divided between the top and bottom of the switches. When pressing down on either of these switches, the user will feel the impact and qualities of the bottom housing, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. However, when releasing a key, the sound and overall experience will be more influenced by the top housing. Despite their differences in bottom housing material, both switches offer distinct experiences at different stages of typing, providing users with a variety of options based on their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mint linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Mint has an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Polaris Gray's actuation force is unknown. However, the Mint has a bottom out force of 53 grams, whereas the Polaris Gray has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it heavier in comparison.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Mint would be a suitable choice as it requires a relatively low actuation force. This lighter actuation force can be beneficial when typing for extended periods, such as during work or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who desire a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Polaris Gray, with its medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams.
While the actuation force of the Polaris Gray is unknown, it is important to note that actuation force primarily involves the force required to trigger a keystroke. In this case, both switches could potentially have similar results if the unknown actuation force of the Polaris Gray is relatively close to 45 grams like the Mint. However, the significantly heavier bottom out force of the Polaris Gray implies a noticeably different feel when pressing all the way down. Ultimately, an individual's preference for a lighter or heavier switch will determine their choice between the Mint and the Polaris Gray.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Mint linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance of travel. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches offer similar results and do not differ in this aspect.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Polaris Gray has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Gray for $5.00.
The KTT Mint comes in at $2.91 per 10 switches.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When it comes to sound, both the KTT Mint linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch have similar qualities. They are both described as having a low-pitched sound profile, which means they produce a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Additionally, they are both considered neutral switches, with a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile. This makes them suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, or if you plan to use them at home or work. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both the Mint and the Polaris Gray switches offer a mild and polished typing experience. A mild mechanical keyboard switch provides a gentle typing experience, without any pronounced characteristics. This makes the sound and feel approachable to most users, as they fall within a safe, middle-ground zone. Additionally, both switches are described as polished, meaning they have a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. This smoothness can be attributed to either the materials used or factory lubing, leading to reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, both the KTT Mint linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch offer similar subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. They both provide a low-pitched sound profile and a mild, polished typing experience. This means that whether you choose the Mint or the Polaris Gray switches, you can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference, the specific keyboard board and keycaps used, and any additional factors you may consider important in your typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the KTT Mint linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, it all comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. The Mint switch is best suited for those who enjoy a satisfyingly smooth and poppy typing experience. With a bottom out force of 53 grams, it offers a lighter touch that can be ideal for those who prefer a gentle typing experience. The sound profile of the Mint switch is described as low-pitched and neutral, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone without being too distracting. Additionally, the Mint switch has a mild and polished feel, ensuring a comfortable and sleek typing experience.
On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switch is perfect for those who prefer a bouncy typing experience. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, it offers a medium-heavy touch that provides a bit more resistance and feedback. The sound profile of the Polaris Gray switch is also low-pitched and neutral, offering a similar bass-heavy and mellow tone as the Mint switch. However, the Polaris Gray switch provides an additional thocky sound when pressed and released, adding a deep and satisfying element to the typing experience. Similar to the Mint switch, the Polaris Gray switch has a mild and polished feel, ensuring smooth and refined key travel.
Ultimately, both the KTT Mint linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch are excellent choices, with each offering its unique characteristics. Consider your preferred typing experience in terms of weight, sound, and feel to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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